Becoming August: Twenty One

Melodic Roots Rock

Rating: 4.0/5.0

When he's not logging or cutting timber at the Higmo family farm and saw mill in Brunswick, Maine, Allen Higgins is knocking out some hefty American roots rock with his friends in Becoming August. In the promo material, Higgins expresses some trepidation about sending Twenty One, their debut work, into the world for all to hear. Higgins and Becoming August need not fear for Twenty One is a fine first work.

From the slim production to the music itself, there's nothing modern about Becoming August. Unashamedly, they do it old school playing rock circa 1974 with plenty of kudos to traditional American blues, country, and hardworking grit. Female vocalist Anna Libby brings a positive southern charm to the music with her earthy, often soulful, voice. Songs like Freight Train, Indefinitely, or TV Song invoke fire, passion, and in the latter case, humor to the music. Then, a simple turn brings a soulful country style led by Libby's honest vocals on For Nothing or Amy's Song. Twenty One is equal measures of inspiration and perspiration with Becoming August putting their heart and soul into every song. Quite recommended!

In Short

Twenty One is equal measures of inspiration and perspiration with Becoming August putting their heart and soul into every song. Quite recommended!

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